A statement from Brighton Pride said he wanted to "concentrate on his own career and position within the local LGBT community".

Mr Clothier said: “The past year has seen some amazing highs for Pride alongside some challenging trials and the new board, along with our community and local business partners will need to review the model used to deliver Pride in the future.

"Some difficult decisions will need to be made to ensure that this amazing celebration of LGBT lives can continue in a sustainable format.

“I am certain that Pride in Brighton & Hove will emerge even stronger and I wish those who take on the responsibility for the charity in the future every success.”

Brighton Pride spokeswoman Judith Manson told PinkNews.co.uk that the event was in the process of recruiting trustees and that there was no requirement for its organising body to have a chair.

Last month, 160,000 people enjoyed the city's pride celebrations.

The festivities came after a rocky 12 months for the event. Last November, Brighton Pride admitted the event was not paying for itself and was forced to cancel its winter event.

It announced a £50,000 budget deficit and the 2009 festival was described by organisers as "a bad year" in financial terms